Krak-uhp
Verb, Noun
A crash or fall from a bicycle.
Example usage: 'That last turn was a bit tight, I almost had a crack-up!'
Most used in: Mountain biking, cyclocross, and BMX communities.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists who have been on the trails for a while.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
Also see: Bonk, Hit the Wall, Blowing Up, Cooked,
What is a Cycling Crack-Up?
A cycling crack-up, also known as a pile-up, is a crash involving multiple cyclists. It often occurs during a race when cyclists are travelling very close together at high speeds, and can be caused by a range of factors, including mechanical problems, rider error, road surface changes or wind gusts.
Crack-ups typically involve several riders, and can be quite serious. In the worst cases, they can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. According to a study conducted in 2017, there were over 8,000 cycling crashes in the UK that year, with over 6,500 of those being classified as serious or minor injuries. Of those, 12% (around 780 crashes) were multi-rider crashes, or crack-ups.
In order to reduce the risk of a crack-up, cyclists should always be aware of their surroundings and make sure to leave enough space between themselves and other riders. It is also important to practice good bike handling skills, such as being able to quickly react to obstacles or changes in the road surface, as these can also cause a crack-up.
Cycling crack-ups can be dangerous and should be avoided where possible. By following safe cycling practices and being aware of the potential risks, cyclists can help reduce the chance of being involved in a crack-up.
.The Origins of the Cycling Term 'Crack-Up'
The term 'crack-up' has been used in cycling since the late 1890s. It was first used in the United States, in the Midwest, to describe a cyclist who had gone too hard and as a result was unable to finish a race. The term was used to describe a cyclist who had pushed too hard and used up all their energy, leaving them 'cracked up'.
The term has since become more widely used in the cycling community, and is now used to describe any cyclist who has gone too hard and is unable to finish the race. It is also used to describe a cyclist who has had an accident or crash, or who has been forced to abandon a race due to injury or fatigue.
The term 'crack-up' has been used in cycling for over a century, and is now used as a warning to cyclists to pace themselves and be aware of their limits.
